Phil Collins' Legendary Live Aid Journey: Drama and Triumph Across Continents

In a historic display of musical dedication, Phil Collins performed at two iconic Live Aid concerts on July 13, 1985, managing a remarkable transatlantic journey that evoked the thrills of a 'Mission Impossible' movie. Collins participated in the benefit concerts, orchestrated by musicians Bob Geldof and Midge Ure, to raise awareness and funds for famine relief in Ethiopia.

The first leg of Collins' performance took place at the famed Wembley Stadium in London, where he captivated audiences with renditions of 'Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now)' and 'In the Air Tonight.' Collins also joined forces with prominent musicians Branford Marsalis and Sting during the London concert. After his performance, Collins reflected on the significance of the event, stating, "I’m very proud to be asked to do it because everybody’s involved and it’s just great to be a part of something like this" (Respers France, CNN, 2025).

Following his London set, the artist quickly transitioned to a helicopter that whisked him away to Heathrow Airport, where he boarded the legendary Concorde jet, known for its supersonic speed, allowing him to cross the Atlantic in under three and a half hours. Upon arrival in New York City, Collins took another helicopter to JFK Stadium in Philadelphia, where he teamed up with Eric Clapton and performed alongside Led Zeppelin members Robert Plant, Jimmy Page, and John Paul Jones, marking a significant moment in rock history.

However, the second performance was not without its challenges. Collins later recounted the chaotic atmosphere, noting that he had not rehearsed with Led Zeppelin prior to taking the stage. In an interview with Classic Rock, he explained, "By the time I got there, me and Robert and Jimmy playing together had become The Second Coming Of Led Zeppelin...I didn’t rehearse when I got there, but I listened to ‘Stairway To Heaven’ on Concorde" (Collins, Classic Rock, 2021).

The reunion performance with Led Zeppelin was tense, exacerbated by the band’s internal conflicts. Collins described feeling like an outsider, stating, "I felt like a spare part" (Collins, 2016). His lack of preparation and the existing tensions among the band members contributed to a less-than-ideal performance, which he later expressed discomfort about in his autobiography, 'Not Dead Yet.' Collins elaborated that he had intended to support a friend rather than participate in a Led Zeppelin reunion.

Despite the drama surrounding his second performance, Collins' participation in Live Aid contributed to the event's monumental success, which raised over $125 million for famine relief. Additionally, his transatlantic journey included a surprising encounter with pop icon Cher, who, upon learning of Collins' participation, expressed a desire to perform, leading to her appearance alongside numerous stars to close the concert with 'We Are the World.'

The Live Aid concerts are remembered not only for their star-studded line-ups but also for their profound impact on global awareness of famine and humanitarian efforts. Collins' remarkable journey and the challenges he faced exemplify the spirit of collaboration and commitment that defined this historic event. As Live Aid continues to resonate through the decades, it serves as a reminder of the power of music in bringing people together for a common cause.